Google Pixel 9 series leaks yet again, with launch just around the corner

Google’s next generation of flagship phones are almost here. As good as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are, there’s still room for improvement. And with Google confirming a launch event in just a few days, we don’t have long to wait for an official reveal. However, even before that, loads of leaks and rumours mean there’s not much we don’t already know. Here are the key details regarding the regular smartphones, or see our separate article on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold for a look at the foldable. When will the Google Pixel 9 be released? In an official teaser video, Google has confirmed that the Pixel 9 range will be launching on 13 August 2024 at the next Google event. It’s clear from the use of ‘IX’, the Roman numeral for nine. While we see the silhouette of a phone in the video, it’s not clear how many phones will be launching. As we mention below, the regular Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and all-new Pixel 9 Pro XL could all be on the agenda. Whatever happens, it’s a surprise to see the new Pixel flagships launch so early in the year. Google hasn’t deviated from its October slot in recent years: Google Pixel 8: October 2023 Google Pixel 8 Pro: October 2023 Google Pixel 7: October 2022 Google Pixel 7 Pro: October 2022 Google Pixel 6: October 2021 Google Pixel 6 Pro: October 2021 (Learn more about all previous Google Pixel phones.) Additionally, 9to5Google spotted that Google is offering a “limited-edition collectible” for those who pre-order the Pixel 9 Pro series in Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan. This special gift is described as a “piece of Google Pixel design history” and is exclusive to early orders of the Pixel 9 Pro. The collectible comes in a premium box with a four-color G logo and a “Google Store” label. The Taiwan site indicates that the collectible includes “original Google Pixel design posters.” This offer is only available in these Asia-Pacific countries and is limited to the initial supply. How much will the Google Pixel 9 cost? The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro both saw price increases over their predecessors to the tune of $100/£100 per model. As Google held the previous versions’ prices for a few years, we’d expect to see the same with the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. So, you should be looking at $699/£699 and $999/£999 respectively, though there’s no concrete evidence for this year. However, if the rumours of a brand-new Pro XL model are true, it’s likely to be even more expensive. You’re going to want to keep an eye on our Pixel deals coverage! Here are the starting prices for the last few generations: Google Pixel 8: $699/£699 Google Pixel 8 Pro: $999/£999 Google Pixel 7: $599/£599 Google Pixel 7 Pro: $899/£849 Google Pixel 6: $599/£599 Google Pixel 6 Pro: $899/£849 According to a French site Dealabs, the Pixel 9 will be available in four colours: Obsidian (black), Porcelain (white), Cosmo (pink-ish), and Mojito (green-ish). It will be priced at €899 for the 128GB model and €999 for the 256GB model. The Pixel 9 Pro, similar in size to the Pixel 9 but with more cameras, will start at €1,099 for 128GB, €1,199 for 256GB, and €1,329 for 512GB. The top version will come in Obsidian and Hazel, with the lower storage models also available in Porcelain and Pink. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, larger and the true successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, will start at €1,199 for 128GB, €1,299 for 256GB, €1,429 for 512GB, and €1,689 for 1TB. The 1TB version will be exclusive to Obsidian, while other storage options will include Porcelain, Hazel and Pink. Pricing is expected to vary slightly across the EU due to different VAT levels, and comparisons indicate price increases from the Pixel 8 series. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, in particular, is at least €100 more expensive than the Pixel 8 Pro. These pricing trends are likely to be consistent globally. What features will the Google Pixel 9 have? In announcing the Pixel 9 launch event, Google didn’t reveal anything concrete about what to expect, aside from the presence of AI. However, there are plenty of leaks and rumours out there – here are the ones you need to know about. New models Determining the number of new Pixel models is usually straightforward due to Google’s consistent release patterns. Historically, Google has released two models, differing primarily in screen size, with the larger Pro variant generally featuring a bigger display, battery and a telephoto lens. But back in December 2022, a leaked roadmap published Android Authority predicted three Pixel 9 models, including two Pro variants, one of which would be smaller but still feature a telephoto lens. This rumour has gained credibility due to its accurate details about the 2023 Pixel releases. Anyron Copeman / Foundry Anyron Copeman / Foundry Anyron Copeman / Foundry Recent reports, including those from leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (OnLeaks) and Android Central, suggest that Google plans to release the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, with the latter two featuring three cameras and different screen sizes. Leaked photos of cases from Thinborne (via Android Central) support these claims, indicating flat sides and rounded corners. There’s also set to be a fourth foldable model, but we’re covering the news regarding that device in our separate Pixel 9 Pro Fold article. Jim Martin / Foundry Jim Martin / Foundry Jim Martin / Foundry According to MySmartPice and its recent sightings on Canada’s Radio Equipment List (REL) website, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold model names are now confirmed. Additionally, a recently leaked promo video (via Android Headlines), now removed from YouTube, highlighted that the Pixel Pro series will be available in two sizes for the first time. That’s another piece of evidence that the XL model is on the way. Design Pixel 9 Pro XL According to OnLeaks renders (via MySmartPrice) the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL will feature a smaller 6.5-inch display compared to the Pixel 8 Pro‘s 6.7-inch panel, contradicting an earlier rumour which suggested it’d be even bigger. The front features a centred punch-hole cut-out for the selfie camera, surrounded by slim bezels on all sides. The smartphone sports a flat frame with the power button and volume rockers located on the right side, while the left side remains clean except for antenna markings. The bottom of the device houses the USB Type-C port, speaker grille, and SIM card tray as usual. On the top, expect to find the mmWave antenna cover and a microphone. Notably, the rear camera setup will supposedly feature a triple camera configuration, including a periscope telephoto sensor alongside the ultrawide and main lenses. The presence of a large sensor suggests potential support for variable aperture. The Pixel 9 Pro XL will apparently measure 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5mm, increasing to 12.0mm with the camera bump included. Everything above seems to be additionally backed up by the recently leaked image of the Pixel 9 Pro XL that was posted by Sudhanshu Ambhore on X. Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL render pic.twitter.com/zO5BoMhpIt— Sudhanshu Ambhore (@Sudhanshu1414) July 22, 2024 Additionally, the Pixel 9 Pro XL recently leaked in a comprehensive 19-minute hands-on video (via AndroNews), revealing nearly everything about the phone. Both the front and back are protected by flat sheets of Gorilla Glass Victus 2, with the back sporting a matte finish. The design is basically the same as we’ve seen in previous leaks and renders. It also seems exactly like the Pixel 9 Pro from the Google’s teaser videos, so we can assume that’s the final look. According to Android Headlines, the Pixel 9 Pro XL will have cases available in Charcoal, Porcelain, Hazel and Rose finishes. Pixel 9 Pro The Pixel 9 Pro, though resembling the Pixel 9 Pro XL, will supposedly be more compact, featuring flattened sides akin to the iPhone 15. OnLeaks renders (via 91Mobiles) shown below also depict a redesigned rear camera module, though it’s still unmistakeably a Pixel. The rear camera visor protrudes slightly but is shorter compared to the Pixel 8 and doesn’t extend edge-to-edge. The regular Pixel 9 Pro will apparently sport a 6.1-inch display with a centre punch-hole camera, with dimensions measuring 152.8 x 71.9 x 8.5mm (up to 12.0mm with the camera bump included). In terms of colours, blue and black are the only showcased in the renders above. However, a recent leak from Slashleaks tells us more. According to renders uploaded to the site, the Pixel 9 Pro will be available in Obsidian, Porcelain, Rose, and Hazel colour options. And our Reviews Editor isn’t impressed. Official-looking renders posted by a leaker MysteryLupin (via GSMArena) also claims that the Pixel 9 Pro will be available in Porcelain, Rose, Hazel (green) and Obsidian finishes. It also seems to feature a colour-matched polished metal frame, possibly stainless steel. Pixel 9 OnLeaks has also released renders (via 91Mobiles) which are supposedly of the regular Pixel 9. These renders reveal a similar design to those we have seen previously, featuring a flat metal frame, albeit with a new oval design for the camera bar. Just like the Pixel 8, it looks like the Pixel 9 will be sticking with two rear cameras – likely main and ultrawide. Moreover, Google seems to be moving towards flatter sides, departing from the rounded edges seen in recent Pixel models. It remains to be seen if this will be true, or applied to all Pixel 9 models. Additional real-life photos of the Pixel 9 range were also leaked by Rozetked: Rozetked.me Rozetked.me Rozetked.me Two hands-on videos of a the Pixel 9 retail unit have also surfaced online. X user Hani Mohamed Bioud has shared the first hands-on video and images of the Pixel 9 in its new pink colour. Besides that, the video and images also show a prominent camera bar and an iPhone-like squared-off frame with curved corners for better grip. Pixel 9 is already out in Algeria.Storage: 256GBColor : PinkI’ll keep you updated tomorrow morning. pic.twitter.com/0mE1QlCbEg— Hani Mohamed Bioud (@hanibioud) July 1, 2024 The second video, shared by Reparation mobile 23 on Facebook, showcased the phone with its screen on, highlighting the symmetrical bezels and a new wallpaper. It appears that the standard Pixel 9 will have a glossy back finish, while the Pro models might feature a matt-finished frosted glass back. Another look at the Pixel 9 in pink colour was also recently provided by Sudhanshu Ambhore on X. Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL render pic.twitter.com/zO5BoMhpIt— Sudhanshu Ambhore (@Sudhanshu1414) July 22, 2024 According to official-looking renders posted by a leaker MysteryLupin (via GSMArena), the Pixel 9 will be available in Porcelain (white), Rose, Green, and Obsidian (black) colours. Display According to the leaks above, the Pixel 9 will boast a 6.03-inch display, compared to the 6.1-inch screen on the Pixel 9 Pro and the 6.5-inch display on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. All of them will likely be a 120Hz OLED displays. However, according to the leaked promo materials (via 91mobiles x OnLeaks), the base Pixel 9 might feature a 6.3-inch display. The Pixel 9 Pro is expected to come in two sizes, 6.3 inches and 6.8 inches. The latter size might be the rumoured Pixel 9 Pro XL. Performance While it’s a pretty safe bet that the Tensor G4 will power all the phones of the Pixel 9 series, it’ll probably follow earlier models in being based on Samsung Exynos chipsets. According to The Information, earlier rumours of Google making a brand-new chipset from scratch won’t materialise. Now, this is unlikely to happen until the Tensor G5 arrives, likely on the Pixel 10 series. Android Authority reports that all three phones of the Pixel 9 range will feature the Tensor G4 chipset (based on the Exynos 2400) and also be closer to the refinement we saw between the G1 and G2, rather than a big leap forward. A report from 91mobiles also suggests that all Pixel 9 phones will include Google’s new G4 Tensor chip. Additionally, the leaked promo material reveal that while the Pixel 9 will boast 12GB of RAM and the Pixel 9 Pro will feature 16GB of RAM. Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry The Rozetked team (via Forbes) has revealed benchmark results of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. These benchmarks show significant performance improvements of 16%, 31% and 34% (respectively) over the Pixel 8 models. However, the three Pixel 9 variants display different benchmark results, likely due to hardware differences, such as better heat dissipation in larger models. The software’s efficiency is also expected to improve by the launch in three to four months. One persistent problem over the last years has been the under-display fingerprint sensor, introduced with the Pixel 6, which has been slow and unreliable. Anyron Copeman / Foundry Anyron Copeman / Foundry Anyron Copeman / Foundry Early Pixel models had rear-mounted fingerprint sensors, which were more reliable. The under-display optical scanner from Goodix, used in the Pixel 6 and subsequent models, has been problematic due to its slower speed, lower accuracy and sensitivity to moisture, dirt and low-light conditions. According to Android Authority, Google is set to address this issue with the Pixel 9 series by switching to an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, specifically Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic Gen 2 (QFS4008), used in the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Most phones use optical sensors, but ultrasonic ones are generally faster and more reliable. The new scanner is expected to be available in all Pixel 9 variants except the Fold, which is likely to continue with a physical fingerprint sensor built into the power button. AI features What’s more, these performance enhancements might support advanced local AI tools, enabling faster and more capable functionalities. The Tensor G4 is also expected to receive a neural engine update, enabling new features. According to a leak from AssembleDebug to the Google Pixel blog PiunikaWeb, recent code discoveries from Google’s AI Core app and Google Messages beta suggest the Pixel 9 will feature on-device AI for text-to-image conversions, advanced Magic Compose functions, auto-reply suggestions and text categorisation, all without relying on cloud services. While other brands like Samsung also offer some on-device AI features with its Galaxy AI, Google’s advancements may extend to Samsung devices through